After dodging what could have been the tournament’s biggest upset, National University tries to regain its focus against San Beda today in their knockout semifinal duel in the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.
The Bulldogs, who nearly saw their unbeaten run come to an end Wednesday, gun for a return trip to the finals against the Lions at 4 p.m.
University of the East, an unexpected semifinalist, takes on University of Santo Tomas at 2 p.m. in the other showdown for a title slot.
Ray Parks and Alfred Aroga came through in the stretch as NU slipped past a spunky Letran, 69-67, in the quarterfinals.
“It’s going to be a tough game again,” said NU coach Eric Altamirano. “We just have to make sure we stay sharp, focused, and try to improve our game.”
The Lions, the last NCAA team left standing, rallied from 10 points down to oust the La Salle Green Archers, 66-63, last Wednesday.
“We’ll be ready,” said San Beda coach Boyet Fernandez.
The Tigers leaned on Jeric Teng and Karim Abdul to dispose of Arellano, 83-73.
“I think we’re just starting to pick up now,” said UST coach Pido Jarencio.